Cracker Barrel Kale Salad Recipe for a Healthy Twist

Cracker Barrel’s Kale Salad is a delightful dish that has captured the hearts of many salad lovers. Combining fresh kale with a medley of crunchy nuts, tangy dried fruits, and a perfectly balanced dressing, this salad is both nourishing and indulgent.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light meal, this recipe brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to suit your taste.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the authentic Cracker Barrel Kale Salad recipe so you can enjoy this southern-inspired favorite right at home. Plus, we’ll share tips and variations to make it your own!

Ready to enjoy a fresh, crisp, and vibrant kale salad that tastes just like the one at Cracker Barrel? Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Kale Salad recipe stands out because it expertly balances flavors and textures. The hearty kale leaves provide a slightly bitter and robust base, which is softened by the sweet dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans and sunflower seeds.

The dressing is creamy and tangy, tying everything together without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

It’s a nutrient-dense dish that’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a side or a main with your favorite protein.

Plus, the salad holds up well, so you can prepare it ahead for busy weeknights or pack it for lunch.

Whether you’re a kale enthusiast or someone looking to try a refreshing new salad, this recipe offers a delicious, wholesome option that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh kale, chopped and tough stems removed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
• For the dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium bowl for dressing
• Whisk or fork for dressing
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Salad tongs or large spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the kale: Rinse the kale leaves thoroughly under cold water. Remove the thick stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Massage the kale: Pour about half of the dressing over the chopped kale. Using your hands, gently massage the dressing into the kale leaves for 2-3 minutes. This softens the kale and reduces its bitterness.
4. Add the remaining ingredients: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced red onion to the kale bowl. Toss to combine evenly.
5. Add crackers and remaining dressing: Just before serving, crush the saltine crackers and sprinkle them over the salad. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and toss gently to coat. The crackers will add a delightful crunch.
6. Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Massaging kale is a game-changer! It breaks down the tough fibers, making the salad more tender and enjoyable.

Variation: Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer. You can also use dried cherries instead of cranberries for a slightly different sweetness.

Make it vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative, and replace cheddar cheese with vegan cheese shreds.

Extra crunch: Add crispy bacon bits or toasted coconut flakes for a unique twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This kale salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a nourishing, balanced meal.

It also works well as a refreshing side to barbecue or southern-style comfort food.

If you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan options to complement this salad, check out our Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals or enjoy a flavorful Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for a lighter meal.

For something heartier, try pairing the salad with a warm bowl of Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide to round out your meal.

Conclusion

The Cracker Barrel Kale Salad is a fantastic example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It delivers a satisfying crunch, a touch of sweetness, and a creamy tang that makes every bite delightful.

This salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a healthy side, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.

With the tips and variations provided, you can customize the salad to your liking and make it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors that make this salad a Cracker Barrel favorite!

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